Storm has subsided, but Monday could be a mess

Saturday

Feb 9, 2013 at 9:14 AMFeb 9, 2013 at 9:33 PM

By Alex Sosnowski, AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist

While snow from the Blizzard of 2013 winds down, strong winds will continue to cause blowing and drifting snow through the day over New England and upstate New York. Another storm could cause trouble on Monday.

Even in areas where the snow was wet to start off, plunging temperatures and powerful winds during the height of the storm pulled in arctic air, turning the snow into wind-blown powder. Frequent gusts topping 40 mph are in store with the highest winds along the coast and over the ridges.

That powdery snow will continue to blow around on Saturday, causing drifts to build and block previously plowed streets, sidewalks and roadways.

If you travel on Saturday, you still run the risk of getting stuck or stranded. In these conditions you will be not only putting yourself in danger, but those who attempt a rescue and recovery.

Temperatures will hover in the teens in northern New England and the 20s in southern New England with AccuWeather.com RealFeel® temperatures near to below zero across the north and in the single digits in the south much of the day.

Winds will diminish from west to east on Saturday night and much more tranquil conditions are in store for the area on Sunday with sunshine.

The break will allow crews to attack the monumental task of cleaning up the roads.

Moving forward, a storm bringing blizzard conditions to parts of the Plains on Saturday night into Sunday will turn eastward on Monday.

The storm has the potential to bring enough rain and warmer air in southern areas of the Northeast to cause urban flooding problems, where snow remains on the ground. Many storm drains will be clogged with snow. Leaky roofs may be another problem for some home and business owners.

Ice is also a concern in central and northern areas. The extensive, deep snow cover will act like a giant freezer, keeping the landscape and lowest layer of the atmosphere cold.

The combination of the deep snow cover on roofs and the added weight of the rain could raise the risk of roof failures. The nature of the snow during the first part of the storm in southern New England and Long Island was wet and clinging.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.